MentorBridge is a member-exclusive mentorship program of the India Chamber of Commerce Minnesota that connects entrepreneurs and aspiring founders with experienced business leaders for practical, real-world guidance.

Mentees

• Must be active Chamber members

• May be idea-stage founders, first-time entrepreneurs, or early-stage business owners
  

Mentors

• May be Chamber members or

• Experienced non-members approved or invited by the Chamber

MentorBridge will pilot in early March 2026.

Applications are open now and accepted on a rolling basis.

No. MentorBridge operates on a rolling enrollment model. You may apply at any time.

The Chamber reviews mentor and mentee applications and facilitates introductions based on:

• Experience and expertise alignment

• Industry relevance

• Business stage and goals

• Availability

Matches are made based on fit and availability; a match is not guaranteed.

Mentorships typically follow a 90-day suggested engagement period, with 1–3 meetings. The exact cadence and duration are flexible and determined by the mentor and mentee.

There is no fixed schedule. Most pairs meet once per month, but frequency and format are mutually agreed upon.

No. The Chamber’s role is limited to:

• Facilitating introductions

• Conducting light follow-ups to gauge success

The Chamber does not participate in or oversee mentorship sessions.

No. MentorBridge provides guidance and perspective, not professional services.

Mentors do not provide:

• Legal advice

• Financial or tax advice

• Consulting services

Participants should seek licensed professionals when needed.

No. MentorBridge is not a sales or solicitation platform. Mentors agree not to market or sell services to mentees during the mentorship period.

MentorBridge is included as a member benefit. There is no additional fee to apply or participate during the pilot phase.

If either party feels the match is not productive, they may notify the Chamber. The Chamber may:

• Facilitate a conclusion to the mentorship, or

• Explore a rematch, subject to availability
  

Professional and respectful communication is expected.

Yes. Either party may opt out at any time with notice. MentorBridge is designed to be flexible and respectful of time commitments.

At the end of the suggested engagement period:

• The Chamber sends a short feedback form

• Mentor and mentee may choose to continue informally, outside the program

There is no obligation to continue beyond the program.

• Mentees: No. MentorBridge is a member-exclusive benefit for entrepreneurs and founders who are active Chamber members.

• Mentors: Yes. Experienced professionals who are not Chamber members may participate by invitation or approval from the Chamber.

For program or eligibility questions, contact: samhita.krishnamurthy@icocmn.org